Opening BusinessThe agenda was approved as written. Dan summarized the minutes by topic. Sheri was unable to attend as treasurer but sent the news that nothing had changed since the last meeting.

Business DirectoryA current list of business directory ads was passed around. Those without an entry are encouraged to submit one for publication.501c3 ReportA response was received from the IRS. We have put into our by-laws that, if the Alliance dissolves, the assets will be put into government entities. Further information was sent to the IRS. Notification of acceptance should be received soon.Fire Department Shaun Leonard reported that the fire district applied for a grant to build a new building, about 80’x80’. The fire department would like to build on the Alliance property next to the water treatment facility. The building could also be used for Alliance functions, such as the Plover Festival. Frances moved that the Alliance work on this with the Fire Department and determine if we can assist them. Betty Clark seconded. Motion passed.

Astronomy TourCarl has not heard further information other than a tentative date of August 21. Perhaps a fund-raiser could be put together for that date. This could potentially be combined with the beginning of the school year potluck to meet new teachers. Dan and Carl will work on this.

Consignment AuctionCarl moved that we have a consignment auction on the afternoon of Homecoming. The motion died, but there is interest in investigating the possibility with the school and alumni. Homecoming is on September 12.

Slaughter Plant MeetingsDan, Carl, and Sheri went to Rocky Ford to gather information from people who are interested in using locally produced foods in the Denver public schools. The idea of a Karval slaughterhouse was presented as an option for a local beef supply. Beef products would probably have to be precooked in order to be used in the schools. This would create two or three businesses – slaughtering, preparing, and shipping.

Sheri and Dan attended a meeting in Ordway about mobile slaughter plants in Kiowa County. The general idea is that the trucks would come to one central ranch in a community where locals could bring their animals. The facility can be transformed to a different livestock processing facility within an hour and a half. The meat would then be hauled to a centralized processing facility where it would be aged, cut, and packaged. Karval would like to be that processing facility. They have applied for a feasibility study grant and it may be possible that we could partner if that grant goes through.

Farmer’s Union GrantWe have a $4,000 grant for economic development, and we need to spend that money by the end of the year. Those who attend meetings should submit invoices to be reimbursed. We could have someone come out and give a presentation on mobile slaughterhouses. Perhaps this could be used to further some aspect of the RV park or the fire department.

Partners for Wildlife Conservation MeetingWednesday, October 14 – Russell Davis submitted a preliminary budget for the event. They want to have the event in the Community Center. Space will be tight with over 100 people attending. Serving will be at 5 or 6 pm.